Sir Ian McKellen, the renowned British actor, has criticised Prince Harry, King Charles and the late Queen in a new interview.
McKellen offered scathing criticisms of several prominent royals including Queen Elizabeth II, who he had met on several occasions.
Sir Ian McKellen, the renowned British actor, has criticised Prince Harry, King Charles and the late Queen in a new interview.
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Despite his harsh words, the 85-year-old actor declared, “I’m definitely on Prince Harry’s side.”
McKellen, who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991, shared his thoughts on the challenges faced by members of the Royal Family.
McKellen, who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991, shared his thoughts on the challenges faced by members of the Royal Family.
PA
He offered a stark assessment of royal life, comparing it to “a prison” during his interview with The Times.
The actor claimed Prince Harry is “probably not bright enough” to navigate life as a working royal, suggesting he lacked the right friends to support him.
He described King Charles III as “clearly damaged” by his life in the Royal Family, while he suggested Prince Philip was “deeply unhappy”.
“Hats off to anyone who manages to stay sane in that world,” McKellen concluded, emphasising the toll that royal duties and constant public scrutiny can take on individuals.
McKellen also revealed a frosty exchange during one of his encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
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McKellen also revealed a frosty exchange during one of his encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
He recounted an incident during his 2008 Companion of Honour medal ceremony, where the Queen allegedly made a dismissive remark about theatre.
According to McKellen, she asked, “Does anyone actually still go to the theatre?” – a comment he described as “bl**dy rude”.
The actor also claimed Queen Elizabeth II’s handshake gave the signal to “go away”.